Let's Hear It For Your 2011 Hometown Heroes
The personal injury law firm of Allen & Allen was founded on service and action. For over 100 years, Allen & Allen attorneys and staff have been inspired by those in the community who make Virginia such a great place to live and work. In 2011 we’re honored to again feature local heroes responsible for community initiatives and acts of kindness.
This May our firm received an overwhelming response from the community, with hundreds of nominations for impressive candidates from Richmond, Fredericksburg, Petersburg, Charlottesville.
After careful consideration, we’ve selected fifty individuals in Virginia to carry forward the Hometown Hero tradition.
Let's hear if for the winning 2011 Allen & Allen Hometown Heroes:
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1. Veona Ackerman, Richmond
A Richmond grandmother loved by many, Veona is known for
lending a helping hand to others. She has provided shelter to a local
individual dying of cancer as well as numerous families without a place to
live. Veona also cares for a 98-year-old fellow Richmonder and helps disaster
victims by sending care packages.
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2. Alan Asef, Charlottesville
Alan Asef created a food drive, “Dinner With Andrew,” months after the death of one of his
employees at Domino’s Pizza. Now in its 11th year, the employee’s
mother calls the event’s organizer, “an angel on Earth” that has given her,
“the priceless gift of remembrance while serving the community at the same
time.”
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3. McClellan Jerry Bagby, Richmond
Nominated by his daughter, Jerry has overcome addiction and
homelessness. He launched an annual picnic in 2001, called MOTIV8S Citywide
Recognition Day, for three hundred residents a year, complete with
entertainment, giveaways, and educational speakers. Jerry has also created MOTIV8S non-profit to promote positive
lifestyles, and he volunteers regularly at probation offices, hospitals,
homeless shelters and churches.
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4. Tricia Barnes, Fredericksburg
Tricia is known for helping those in need at homeless
shelters and through volunteer projects at Hope
House and Habitat for Humanity. Friends call Tricia, “patient, kind, and
loving,” as evidenced by her service to others delivered in a quiet and modest
manner.
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5. David Boor, Lovingston
Friends report that David is, “the kind of person that
always puts others first…he goes above and beyond to make the community and
world a better place.” David is the current president of the Lions of Nelson, a
representative of the American Red Cross, and a friend to everyone he meets.
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6. Dr. Marietta Brown, Petersburg
Dr. Brown has cared for local families for over 30 years and
is the founder of The House of Restoration
Community Development Program. She has helped at risk children, fed
homeless individuals, and provided clothes to those in need. Friends credit Dr.
Brown as being a caring leader that has brought lasting change to the
Petersburg community.
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7. James Cullinan III, Hadensville
James, known in his community for putting others first and
never expecting any form of payment, volunteers as a firefighter and paramedic. He is a
father, Battalion Chief and deacon at his church. His community says that James
is, “full of compassion, desire, love, and motivation to help others.”
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8. Rusty Davis, Spotsylvania
A popular principal at Spotsylvania High School, Rusty has
served as an educator, leader, coach, and role model for almost two decades. A
hero in the eyes of all that know him, Rusty has dedicated himself to inspiring,
teaching, and changing his community.
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9. Cameron Evans, Midlothian
Known for her compassion for others, Cameron, a mother of
three children, gave
her kidney to save the life of a complete stranger in Wisconsin. Friends and family
say this is no surprise, as Cameron is known for giving to others and performing
acts of kindness, both large and small, without hesitation.
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10. Joshua Finney, Richmond
Joshua fearlessly
carried a woman
who was unable to walk from a burning home shortly before a propane tank
exploded. “He did not look or ask for any special awards or recognition,”
explains a friend, “he
did what he had to do.”
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11. Thomas Fish, Fredericksburg
Tom, a pharmacist, has served the Stafford County
Special Education Advisory
Committee for fifteen years after his daughter passed away from spinal
muscular atrophy. Tom is an active member of the Knights of Columbus, serves on
the board of directors for the Moss
Clinic, is a race organizer to generate money for causes in his community,
and helps others receive medical care.
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12. Robert Fitts, Petersburg
A dedicated husband and community member, Robert is a member
of the Southside
Virginia Rescue Squad, a cardiac technician, and an EMT. He has delivered
13 babies and has saved three individuals having a cardiac event. At 60 years
old, Robert, an active member of Second Presbyterian Church, finds time to
serve Petersburg every Saturday and Sunday night.
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13. Mitch Fitzgerald, Jr., Batesville
The youngest Lieutenant to ever serve the Crozet Volunteer Fire Department, Mitch
has saved neighbors and their homes, provided care for the homeless, and served
as a member of the Honor Guard. Friends say that Mitch, who finds time to mow
people’s lawns for free, has, “the heart of gold and goes out of his way to
serve those around him.”
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14. Katie Goodman, Ashland
Katie, only 11-years-old, had a goal this year to feed 1,100
people and she reached it this summer. She has now expanded the goal to 2011 people. She has collected canned food donations, arranged a Plant a Row for
the Hungry campaign in Hanover County, and has created a drop-off site at
the Ashland Feed Store for people to leave vegetables for the Central Virginia Food Bank. She speaks to
organizations about giving, encourages hunters to donate venison as part of Hunt for the Hungry, and strives to find
new ways to get others involved in serving those in need.
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15. Ashley Gray, Bowling Green
Ashley served in Afghanistan in 2010 and has been in the Marine
Reserves for the past 13 years. He
coaches his daughters’ softball teams, as part of the Caroline Little League, and
when not on Marine duty finds time to help others in his community.
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16. Jett Greenstreet, Fredericksburg
Nominated by his neighbors, Jett is credited as being the
type of community member who is always willing to lend a hand. Friends say that
Jett is quick to provide a ride to someone without transportation, fix broken
toilets and sinks for the elderly and those with disabilities, repair lawn
mowers and other yard equipment without being asked, and simply provide a kind
smile to a friend having a bad day.
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Despite a painful medical condition, Stacy created Christian Outreach, an effort that started as
a table at a yard sale and now serves four hundred people each year. She sorts
through donations, manages two stores, and picks up donated items for families
in need of furniture.
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18. Chris Harris, King William
Chris is devoted to education and making a lasting impact on
the lives of at-risk youth in King William County. A paraprofessional at Cool
Spring Primary School, he provides support to children struggling with
academics, coordinates the “Lil’ Gent’s Club,”
mentors young men in need, and serves as a cafeteria monitor so that other
teachers may have a lunch break. Chris created “Gentleman’s Day,” occurring
once a month with the goal of encouraging over 200 young men to take pride in
their appearance by wearing a tie to school.
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19. Keith Hoge, Ruther Glen
Keith, a recently commended 1st Sergeant in the Marine Corps,
has served his country in Iraq, Afghanistan, Egypt and Liberia. He will be
deployed for Afghanistan again in September. His family says that Keith, “Loves
serving his country…he fights for our freedom everyday.”
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20. Gina Hudson, Richmond
“Gina is my ‘Nana’ and for as long as I can remember she has
worked at Virginia CURE,” writes Gina’s
nominator. At CURE, Gina serves K.I.D.S.
(Kids of Inmates will Define Our Society) by providing gifts during the
holidays, backpacks during the school year, and serving as an advocate before
the General Assembly.
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21. Charles Hunter, Jr., Triangle
A single parent of an eight-year-old son, Charles, 28, is
known as an “awesome dad” in his community. He serves as a firefighter and
finds time to help not only his family, but also those around him on a daily
basis.
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22. Ryleigh Katstra, Charlottesville
At seven-years-old Ryleigh’s mother read her an article
about a local teen’s campaign against hunger. Ryleigh quickly responded by
helping the Neighbors-4-Neighbors
food drive through her collection of over 1,200 ponds of food. Now eight,
Ryleigh has continued her food drive, securing over 3,300 pounds of food and
feeding over 2,570 individuals.
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23. Aaron Keller, Fredericksburg
Aaron is praised by his neighbor who says he is always there
with a smile and a helping hand. Aaron
jumps in to help with carpooling for a blind neighbor and is always willing to
lend his time to help with lawn care and household repairs for those in need –
all without asking for anything in return. His friendly, caring attitude makes him a hero
to those around him.
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24. George Kuhlow, Palmyra
George has volunteered for Shelter for Help in Emergency, VFW,
Head Start, JABA, Habitat for Humanity, Meals of Wheels, and Special Olympics,
as well as helped in countless assisted living facilities. Additionally, he
assists seniors in applying for assistance with social security, visits local
seniors in their homes, and supports individuals with intellectual disabilities
at Region 10 Community Services.
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25. Jane LaVerne, Hartfield
A tireless member of the Deltaville Rescue Squad and the
Governor’s State Emergency Response Team, Jane is known by the community for
“giving her time to volunteer for activities that save lives.” When not
volunteering, Jane has managed operating rooms at MCV for over 30 years.
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26. Peggy Law, Charlottesville
Peggy is known for “opening doors for people with
disabilities, one dog at a time.” As the founder of Service Dogs of Virginia, Inc., Peggy has
impacted the lives of countless Virginians with disabilities and their
families.
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27. Branson Taylor Layne, Dillwyn
While riding with his parents, an observant eight-year-old,
Branson Taylor Layne, eyed an elderly woman on the ground, all alone in her
yard. He insisted that his parents turn around immediately, and has since been
credited for saving the injured woman’s life.
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28. Mark Lorenzoni, Charlottesville
Operating a family
business for over 30 years, Mark finds time to create, promote, and direct
hundreds of not-for-profit races designed to create community and bolster
confidence of local runners. Friends say that Mark has “helped us all become better
people through coaching us toward our goals both in athletics and life.”
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29. Jacqueline Lowry, Richmond
Jackie is the mother of four boys who she adopted at birth
from drug-addicted parents. She is described as quick to “offer a hand, a kind
word, or hours of labor for a friend, a neighbor, and even a stranger.” She
works with children with special needs in the City of Richmond, runs her own
local business, and cares for the elderly.
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30. Sharon Mallory, Petersburg
A dedicated 4-H agent
in Petersburg, Sharon has established a strong 4-H program that addresses the
needs of youth in her community. Offering a variety of activities, Sharon has
forged partnerships with local organizations and has inspired many through
ongoing learning opportunities, summer camps, and mentorships.
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31. Jackie Maroney, Chesterfield
Jackie is the founder of Richmond Friends of Animals,
a nonprofit animal and environmental advocacy group of volunteers who stand up
against animal abuse by promoting compassionate choices, holding peaceful
demonstrations, and outreach events. She spends countless hours coordinating
rescues, transporting animals, and promoting environmentally conscious living.
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32. Kathy Martin, Prince George
A good friend to the Prince George Police Department, Kathy
has created a successful Neighborhood Watch program in her community. Kathy, a
cancer survivor, has provided food and clothes for those in need, cared for the
elderly, and raised seven children.
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33. Kouri Mayhew, Ashland
A dedicated volunteer at the Ashland Fire Department
(Station 1), Kouri has responded to over 250 emergency calls, provided over
2,000 hours of service, and participated in countless hours of training. Named
as the Ashland Fire Company’s Firefighter of the Year in 2010, his peers say
that they rely on Kouri for leadership and experience.
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34. Dana Nelson, Mechanicsville
Dana
Nelson, a decorated Vietnam combat veteran, has never backed down from a
challenge. As a tireless volunteer, mentor, and philanthropist, Dana has
co-founded Operation Hope, served as a speaker on
a variety of subjects at local high schools, and advocated for individuals
with disabilities. He has provided funding for student travel and
scholarships, served two governors, and has inspired programming at
Hanover Habitat for Humanity. Dana is currently working on a book about his
life story.
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35. Lisa Olsson, Fredericksburg
Nominated by her son, Lisa is known in her community as an
“extremely caring individual who puts other people and animals above herself.”
Her daily routine involves helping homeless individuals, rescuing animals
without homes, and making Fredericksburg a better place for all. Lisa volunteers and supports the following Low Cost Spay and Neuter Clinics in and around the Fredericksburg area and works to encourge her community to adopt their next pet from the local animal shelters and rescue groups: Kincheloe (Spotsylvania VA) 540-507-7461; Prevent A Liter (P.A.L) 804-448-1043; Princess Anne Animal Hospital (F'burgVA) 540-373-8181.
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36 and 37. Jesse and Tammy Ressler, Bumpass
When someone is in need, this couple helps – no questions
asked. “They were my caretakers and lifesavers,” says one friend who received
the support of Jesse and Tammy after her husband was hospitalized. This dynamic
duo helped walk and feed the dogs, buy groceries, wash dishes, and run errands everyday after work for the family
in need.
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38 and 39. Brian and Susan Rich, Amelia Courthouse
Brian and his wife Susan dedicate their time to raising
money and donations for our troops. The couple founded A Grateful Nation, a nonprofit organization responsible for
gathering over 10 tons of donations (from soap to nuts) to send to the armed
forces stationed in Iraq, Afghanistan and Kuwait. The organization has shipped
over 1,000 cases of donations at no cost to the troop or taxpayers.
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40. Rebecca Silverstein, Fredericksburg
Constantly displaying acts of unselfishness and kindness,
Rebecca volunteers her time and money to bettering the world, domestically and
internationally. She volunteers at the Chancellor
Fire Department by staffing ambulances overnight. By day she mentors for the Big Brothers, Big
Sisters program, as well as volunteering her time and donating funds to a
medical mission in Peru. Rebecca has also spent time in the Amazon, assisting
those who may never have seen a doctor.
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41. James Smith, Bumpass
Nominated by his sister, James is described as a
dedicated community member who “gives so much of his time to youth and young
adults in our hometown.” He serves as the executive director of the YMCA of
Greater Richmond, volunteers as a coach, serves as the president of the Louisa County Education
Foundation, volunteers with the Bright Beginnings program, and finds time
to speak to the youth at Louisa County High School.
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42. Kevin Smith, Glen Allen
Kevin, a Business Analyst for Markel Corporation, splits his free time
between working towards his Masters degree and performing charity work in the
community. He volunteers with the Central
Virginia Food Bank, Junior Achievement, Special Olympics Virginia, Big Brothers Big Sisters and numerous other nonprofit
organizations. Kevin is responsible for driving an annual head-shaving
event in Innsbrook that raised over $30,000 in 2010 and close to $50,000 in
2011 for the St. Baldrick’s Foundation to support childhood cancer
research. Additionally, he is currently planning a second festival in
Innsbrook taking place on October 29th to support the Faison School for Autism.
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43. John Stott, Fredericksburg
After beating cancer twice and having a successful bone
marrow transplant, John’s son lost his life on April 20, 2011 due to an earlier
infection. During the twenty-month period that his son spent defeating cancer,
John delivered numerous random acts of kindness to friends, family members, and
other children with severe illness, providing continuous support to the
doctors, nurses, and technicians at Children’s National Medical Center, and
nominating a staff member at INOVA for “Nurse of the Year.” During his struggle, a time when most would
seek help, John delivered it.
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44. Tamara Tatum, Chester
Tamara, nominated by her husband for serving as his hero,
teaches 12th grade girls about positive life decisions, helps homeless
individuals, and serves as a Registered Nurse. She has also assisted
under-nourished children and orphans in Guatemala.
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45. Tierra Terrell, Petersburg
Tierra created a transportation business, ABUS Van Services, to help working mothers feel safe about the
transportation of their children en route to school each day. She has assisted
with transportation to Henrico Public Schools as well as the Boys and Girls
Club, while finding time to serve in a
“ladies help group,” called Ten Shoes, dedicated to supporting single parents in
providing for their children.
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46. Franklin Thurston, Sr., Richmond
Franklin made the decision to come out of retirement to take
over the Webelos Cub Scouts and to serve as the Committee Chairman of the Scouting
Committee. His friends report that he “shapes and molds young boys into good
and productive young men.” Franklin is
known to use his own money and resources to “get the boys what they need.”
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47. Ashley Thweatt, Prince George (currently stationed in Savannah, GA)
Committed to family and country, Thweatt, a native of Prince
George, left behind his two sons to serve in Afghanistan and Iraq. As a member
of the United States Air Force, he has rescued injured victims in Iraq and
helped his fellow soldiers gain medical attention. “The sacrifices he has made
are great. He is kind and compassionate. Always worrying about the other guy,”
report those who know him.
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48. James Tupper, Charlottesville
James is called the “angel” of his street in his small
neighborhood. He serves on the Board of the Home Owners Association, organizes
block parties, shovels snow for elderly neighbors, visits neighbors in the
hospital, and runs errands for those in need. “He is the most reliable person
if help of any kind is needed,” explain his neighbors.
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49. Glen Wilkerson, Amelia Courthouse
It’s impossible to drive through the county without seeing
Glen working on something. Those who know him best report that, “he is the kind
of man who would give someone the shirt off his back without any questions.” A
county employee that goes beyond the call of duty, Glen takes only one regular
break a day – a standing lunch with his wife.
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50. Christopher Woody, Richmond
The founder of The
Woody Foundation, Christopher helps youth and families in need throughout
the City of Richmond. He exhibits random acts of kindness towards the less
fortunate in the city by assisting families during the holidays, purchasing
school supplies, and organizing food drives.
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2011 Hometown Heroes Events
We hope to see you at the Allen, Allen, Allen & Allen sponserd events honoring our 2011 Hometown Heroes. The events will take place across Virginia throughout the rest of the summer, including concerts and sporting events (see below for a complete listing). So come out as we celebrate these wonderful Virginia citizens and meet a representitive from your local Allen & Allen firm.
Petersburg Generals Baseball Game
July 9, 2011
5:30 PM
Petersburg, VA
CountryFest Featuring Trace Adkins at Innsbrook Pavillion
August 26, 2011
Richmond, VA
Celebrate Virginia Big & Rich Concert
August 5, 2011
6:00 PM
Fredericksburg, VA
Best of C-Ville Party
August 19, 2011
Charlottesville, VA
To learn about the 100 Hometown Heroes honored in 2010, click here.
Allen & Allen's Good Deed's Tracker
In addition to HOMETOWN HEROES 2011, the law firm simultaneously launched an “Allen & Allen Good Deeds Tracker” that complements its goal of indentifying and measuring positive actions – no matter how large or small. Located on the Allen & Allen website, anyone can continue to submit a simple – yet impactful – act of kindness that they have performed or have witnessed around them. Allen & Allen will keep a running tally of good deeds taken in the community for the public to view their impact throughout the summer of 2011. To log your good deed or a good deed you have witnessed this summer click here for the Allen & Allen Good Deeds Tracker.
Related News
- Call for nominations: Allen & Allen's Hometown Heroes 2011
- Allen & Allen Good Deeds Tracker 2011
- 100 Hometown Heroes - Brought to you by the personal injury law firm of Allen & Allen - Celebrating 100 Years
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Come Out And Honor The 2011 Hometown Heroes
Petersburg Generals Baseball Game
Petersburg
August 26, 2011
CountryFest Featuring Trace Adkins at Innsbrook
Richmond
August 5, 2011
Celebrate Virginia Big & Rich Concert
Fredericksburg
August 19, 2011
Best of C-Ville Party
Charlottesville
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